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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesS42.109

S42.109

Billable

Fracture of unspecified part of scapula, unspecified shoulder

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/24/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 S42.109 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of fracture of unspecified part of scapula, unspecified shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The S42.109 code refers to a fracture of an unspecified part of the scapula, which is a bone that connects the upper arm bone (humerus) to the collarbone (clavicle). This type of fracture can occur due to trauma, such as falls or accidents, and may present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. The scapula is a complex bone with several anatomical parts, including the body, spine, and glenoid cavity, and fractures can vary in severity. Patients may experience associated injuries, such as dislocations of the shoulder joint or fractures of the humerus. Diagnosis typically involves physical examination and imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans. Treatment may range from conservative management, including rest and physical therapy, to surgical intervention, depending on the fracture's location and severity. Understanding the specifics of the injury is crucial for appropriate management and coding.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in fracture location and type
  • Potential for associated injuries (e.g., dislocations, humeral fractures)
  • Need for precise documentation to differentiate from other shoulder injuries
  • Variability in treatment approaches (surgical vs. conservative)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of fracture specifics
  • Failure to document associated injuries
  • Misuse of unspecified codes leading to denials
  • Inconsistent coding practices across providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the mechanism of injury, fracture type, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Fractures resulting from falls, sports injuries, or vehicular accidents.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity on whether the fracture is isolated or part of a more complex injury.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of functional limitations and rehabilitation goals.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Post-fracture rehabilitation and management of shoulder mobility.

Billing Considerations

Document progress and response to therapy to support ongoing treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use S42.109 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding fractures, including the need for specificity in documentation
  • Ensure that the fracture is confirmed through imaging and that any associated injuries are documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use S42.109 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

23470CPT Code

Arthroscopic shoulder repair

Clinical Scenario

Used when surgical intervention is required for a scapular fracture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Orthopedic surgeons must document the specifics of the fracture and repair.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding fractures, which can improve patient care and billing accuracy. S42.109 provides a way to capture unspecified fractures while encouraging detailed documentation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding fractures, which can improve patient care and billing accuracy. S42.109 provides a way to capture unspecified fractures while encouraging detailed documentation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

billing accuracy. S42.109 provides a way to capture unspecified fractures while encouraging detailed documentation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use S42.109 instead of a more specific code?

Use S42.109 when the specific part of the scapula is not documented or when the fracture is still under evaluation. However, strive for specificity whenever possible to ensure accurate coding.